Gentex Corporation

The First “Aspheric” Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirror

Gentex stands out for their sharp strategic vision combined with high-tech
innovative capabilities. A PACE Award winner in 1995 and 1997, the judges
recognize them this year for their aspheric auto-dimming external mirrors developed
for use on Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Europe.

While manufacturing auto-dimming aspheric mirrors drew upon existing electrochromic
gel technologies, it also required a series of innovations to let Gentex
mate two pieces of asymmetric glass at tolerances under 1/100". Gentex
faced unacceptably low yields in January 1997, but their customer, Mercedes-Benz,
wanted production of 20,000 units a month by September. Gentex met these
and other challenges, working with their suppliers to devise new molding techniques,
developing sophisticated new in-house optical capabilities, and improving process
yields.

Also impressive is the clarity of Gentex’s strategic vision, which reflects their
substantial, focused R&D commitments. Gentex can now supply auto-dimming
units for all passenger car rear view mirror applications, interior and exterior,
flat, convex, and aspheric. They have increased product complexity while
steadily reducing prices, deterring entry while expanding their overall market. They
have stuck to a mission of being the best at making mirrors, turning the 30-odd
manufacturers of mirror modules from potential rivals into potential customers. They
are even working to speed the regulatory acceptance of aspheric mirrors in the
US. The judges are proud to present Gentex with its third PACE Award.